Several hormones contribute to increasing blood glucose levels. The primary hormone responsible is glucagon.
Glucagon: The Key Player
Glucagon, produced by the pancreas, is a crucial hormone in regulating blood sugar. It acts primarily by increasing glycogenolysis (the breakdown of glycogen into glucose) and gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) in the liver. This leads to a release of glucose into the bloodstream, thereby raising blood sugar levels. Cleveland Clinic explains glucagon's role in regulating blood glucose levels and preventing hypoglycemia. Further information on glucagon's physiology can be found in Endotext.
Other Contributing Hormones
While glucagon is the most significant, other hormones also contribute to elevated blood glucose:
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Cortisol: This stress hormone, released by the adrenal glands, increases blood sugar levels. Mayo Clinic highlights cortisol's role in raising blood glucose and its relation to stress. Furthermore, StatPearls discusses the impact of glucocorticoids like cortisol on blood glucose availability. Equi Life also names cortisol as a key hormone that raises blood sugar. A study on progesterone also shows its effect on blood glucose via hepatic progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 (PEPCK) (PMC).
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Epinephrine (Adrenaline): Released during stress, adrenaline also contributes to increased blood glucose levels.
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Growth Hormone: While its primary function isn't blood sugar regulation, growth hormone can increase blood glucose levels, especially with high doses. NCBI details studies showing the effects of growth hormone on glucose metabolism and insulin levels.
These "stress hormones" – glucagon, cortisol, epinephrine, and growth hormone – work together to maintain blood glucose levels, especially during stressful situations. UCSF Diabetes Education Online refers to them as such. However, chronically elevated levels of these hormones can contribute to conditions like diabetes. A review on stress-induced diabetes highlights the role of these hormones in blood glucose elevation (PMC).
